One case of Omicron variant confirmed in Ireland

Tests have revealed that a case of the Omicron coronavirus variant has been confirmed in Ireland, RTÉ News is reporting this afternoon.

The tests were conducted at the National Virus Reference Laboratory at UCD.

Dr. Cillian de Gascun told RTÉ news that 14 samples were analysed over the weekend.

Eight of the samples underwent whole geneome sequencing and one of those eight was confirmed as having the omicron variant yesterday.

Dr. De Gascun said it is a travel associated case to one of designated countries which have confirmed cases of Omicron.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan said the NPHET Epidemiological Surveillance Team will continue to monitor this situation and provide advice on an ongoing basis.

The World Health Organisation has said it will take several weeks to assess the threat posed by Omicron, the report added.

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